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Educational use only: Symptom.Today is an educational tool and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are not a substitute for professional medical care. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or concerning, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
Neurological, Ear Nose and Throat (ENT)Moderate

Vertigo

Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when they are not. It is often caused by an underlying issue with the inner ear or the balance centers of the brain.

Severity
Moderate
System
Head & nervous system
Progression
Gradual
Treatable
Yes — usually with self-care or routine treatment
Common age
All ages
Duration
Acute (days–weeks)
Contagious
No
Emergency risk
High
Head & brain
Affected: Dizziness
Affected area: Head & nervous system

Overview

Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when they are not. It is often caused by an underlying issue with the inner ear or the balance centers of the brain.

Symptoms

Click any symptom to analyze
Primary symptoms
DizzinessOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Dizziness”Loss of balanceOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Loss of balance”NauseaOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Nausea”VomitingOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Vomiting”

Causes

  • •inner ear infections (labyrinthitis)
  • •benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
  • •menière’s disease
  • •vestibular neuritis
  • •migraines

Risk factors

  • •age (over 50)
  • •head injuries
  • •history of ear infections
  • •high blood pressure or heart disease

How it progresses

4 stages
  1. Stage 1 — Silent
    Often no noticeable symptoms; only detected on routine exam.
    Often missed
  2. Stage 2 — Early changes
    Subtle peripheral or functional changes begin to appear.
  3. Stage 3 — Established
    Clear symptoms that interfere with daily activities.
  4. Stage 4 — Advanced
    Significant impairment if untreated; requires specialist care.

How it's diagnosed

  • •physical exam and medical history
  • •dix-hallpike maneuver
  • •balance and hearing tests
  • •mri or ct scans if necessary

Treatment options

General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.

Medical
  • •canalith repositioning maneuvers (Epley maneuver)
  • •vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT)
  • •anti-dizziness medications
  • •antibiotics for infections
Home care
  • •lie still in a dark, quiet room during attacks
  • •move your head slowly and carefully
  • •use a cane or walker to prevent falls
  • •avoid caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol

Complications

  • •Persistent headaches
  • •Cognitive symptoms
  • •Sleep disruption
  • •Recurrence of vertigo

Prevention

  • •Manage stress and sleep
  • •Stay hydrated
  • •Avoid known triggers

When to seek help

Urgent — same-day care
  • •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
  • •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
  • •New or worsening symptoms appear
  • •Concerning changes related to vertigo
🚨 Emergency — call now
  • sudden hearing loss
  • double vision or slurred speech
  • weakness in arms or legs
  • facial drooping or numbness
  • fainting or loss of consciousness

In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.

Real-world questions

  • ›Can Vertigo cause headaches?
  • ›Is Vertigo reversible?
  • ›How quickly does Vertigo progress?
  • ›Is Vertigo hereditary?
  • ›Can Vertigo be prevented?

Compare conditions

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Explore related symptoms

HeadacheThunderclap headacheDizzinessFaintingConfusionMemory lossSeizureTremor

Frequently asked questions

What causes Vertigo?

Possible causes of Vertigo include inner ear infections (labyrinthitis), benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), menière’s disease, vestibular neuritis.

Is Vertigo dangerous?

Vertigo is generally moderate, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.

How long does Vertigo last?

Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.

Can Vertigo go away on its own?

Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

When should I see a doctor about Vertigo?

Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.

Sources

Information based on general medical references such as:

CDCNHSWHOMedlinePlus

Last reviewed: May 2026

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Educational use only: Symptom.Today is an educational tool and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are not a substitute for professional medical care. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or concerning, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.